Wangen – The ticket sales for the Festspiele Wangen have officially begun, promising a delightful summer of entertainment for the local community. This year’s program features a mix of familiar stories presented in musical form and a new theatrical piece, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The evening performance will showcase "Die Schmalspur-Gigolos" by Frank Piotraschke, a comedy that has yet to gain widespread recognition but has already seen success in two theaters in Munich and Emden. Directed by the accomplished Petra Wintersteller, the play delves into the lives of four men who decide to start an escort service in a local pub, exploring themes of friendship and love, culminating in a surprising twist.
In the afternoons, families can enjoy "Peter Pan – Das Nimmerlandmusical," based on the beloved story by James M. Barrie, adapted by Jan Radermacher and Timo Riegelsberger. This musical adventure invites audiences into the magical world of Neverland, where Wendy, along with her brothers Michael and John, encounters Peter Pan and the infamous Captain Hook. The production promises to be filled with music and songs that the whole family can enjoy together.
The lead actors for the family play have been announced, showcasing a talented cast of young performers from Wangen and the surrounding region. Linda Hochholzer, a 20-year-old from Neuravensburg, has been passionate about performing since childhood, demonstrating her skills in both acting and singing during auditions. Eighteen-year-old Anna Prestel, a student at Rupert-Neß-Gymnasium, has showcased her musical talents through various performances at school and the local youth music school. Sixteen-year-old Leo-Raphael Steiner, who has aspirations of becoming an actor or director, has also joined the cast. Additionally, 18-year-old Leni Kleinheinrich from Ravensburg, a singer with diverse musical experience, and 20-year-old Violetta Mai from Memmingen, who shares a similar background, complete the main cast.
Due to the abundance of talent, the main roles will feature a double cast. Linda and Leni will portray Wendy, with Leni also taking on the role of Cecco, while Violetta and Anna will alternate as Peter Pan and play supporting characters Nana, Starkey, and the Crocodile. Leo will be involved in all performances, taking on various roles throughout the production.
Tickets for all events can be purchased at the Gästeamt Wangen, located at Bindstraße 10, via email at [email protected], or by calling 07522 / 74-211. They are also available through all Reservix ticket outlets or online at festspiele-wangen.reservix.de.
For those interested in supporting the Festspiele Wangen, opportunities are available for helping with stage construction and other behind-the-scenes activities. More information can be found on the festival’s official website. Additionally, there is a need for accommodation during the festival, particularly two sleeping spaces for July and August, as well as a rental from June to July. Offers can be sent to production manager Amelie Rapp at [email protected].
Düsseldorf is also gearing up for a vibrant summer with the return of the Asphalt Festival 2025, which will feature 50 events across the city. The festival promises an eclectic mix of theater, concerts, and various performances, with ticket sales having commenced on May 6, 2025. The festival will run from July 8 to July 27, showcasing a diverse array of cultural experiences.
Among the highlights are performances by notable TV and film personalities Annette Frier and Peter Trabner, who will bring their philosophical political show titled "Demokratie Plus X" to the lake stage in front of the K 21 of the Kunstsammlung NRW on July 15 and 16. This engaging show promises a humorous yet profound exploration of democracy.
The Danish theater group "Fix und Foxy" will present a unique relationship piece featuring Düsseldorf couples in their own homes, inspired by Ibsen's classic "A Doll's House." This innovative approach aims to bring the audience closer to the themes of the play in an intimate setting.
Festival organizers Christof Seeger-Zurmühlen and Bojan Vuletic unveiled the festival's program at the 34Ost, a commercial property that has served as a cultural hub. Despite plans for its demolition two years ago, the venue will once again host the festival, providing a backdrop for cultural engagement.
Among the anticipated events is a solo performance by renowned cabaret artist Frank Goosen, titled "Heimat, Fußball, Rockmusik," as well as a concert by Berlin’s Jasper Munk, celebrated for his blues-rock poetry.
The theater collective "pierre.vers" will present "Goldstück" from July 14 to 23, a poignant production addressing domestic violence against women, a critical issue that resonates beyond Europe. The premiere will take place in Chemnitz in mid-June, before it is showcased in Düsseldorf.
On the opening day of the festival, July 8, Amir Reza's "Blind Runner" will bring Persian poetry to the stage, while the French Nu-Soul and Funk group "Lehmanns Brothers" will also perform. From July 11 to 13, audiences can catch "Ophelia’s Got Talent" by Florentina Holzinger, described by critics as a dazzling and provocative show.
Tickets for the Asphalt Festival can be purchased through the festival's website and at the box office located at Oststraße 34, with additional information available by calling 0211/90222 377 during specific hours.
